15-day Kosovo & North Macedonia self-drive

Arrive at Pristina International Airport, where you’ll be greeted by a local representative. Transfer to your hotel in the city centre, just 20 minutes away and settle in for a restful evening. 

Start your day with breakfast in Pristina, the vibrant capital of the Balkans, where lively cafes and restaurants line the bustling streets.

Afterwards, pick up your rental car and head for the White Drin waterfall, a scenic spot with a trail leading to the magical Sleeping Beauty caves, carved out by centuries of flowing water. Continue to Peja, a city at the foot of the Rugova mountains, known for its dramatic gorges, cultural history and welcoming atmosphere.

When you arrive at Peja, chack in to your hotel. Once you're settled, head out for a stroll through its quaint streets or simply relax and take in the stunning surroundings. 

After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Visoki Decani Monastery, a 14th-century treasure renowned for its Byzantine-inspired frescoes. Later, drive to Gjakova, where the charming Old Town offers traditional craft stalls and inviting streets perfect for exploring.

Find a spot to enjoy lunch in this culturally rich setting, then set off in the afternoon for Velika Hoca, a Serbian enclave with a deep winemaking heritage. Tour the family-owned vineyards, learn about their centuries-old traditions. This is a great place to enjoy dinner with the hosts, accompanied local wines and rakias.

Later, arrive in Prizren and check in to your new hotel for a relaxing evening in this picturesque city. 

After breakfast, take time to uncover the treasures of Prizren, Kosovo’s historical capital, surrounded by magnificent mountain scenery.

Wander through the old Ottoman bazaar with its cobbled streets, teahouses and religious landmarks, including the Sinan Pasha Mosque, Saint George Orthodox Cathedral and Catholic Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Relief. Learn about the Albanian League of Prizren, a pivotal movement for Albanian rights established in the 19th century.

Take the drive out to Prizren Fortress and appreciate its panoramic views of the city, or head to the cheese factory for a gastronomic experience, before returning to your hotel for a second night in the city.

After breakfast, you'll be driving through the scenic Sharr Mountains to Skopje, the vibrant capital of North Macedonia. There, you'll discover how this city was reborn after the devastating 1963 earthquake and see its blend of modern architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Once you've arrived and settled into your new hotel, head out and explore the city centre, home to the historic Tvrdina Kale fortress and the iconic Kameni Most stone bridge, which divides the city into two distinct halves. Cross into the Old Town to experience the Ottoman Čaršija bazaar, a lively hub of tradition and culture.

This evening is free for you to spend however you please.

Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Matka Canyon, one of Macedonia’s top natural attractions. Take a boat ride to the Vrelo Caves, known for their spectacular formations and status as one of the world’s deepest underwater cave systems.

After, continue to Mavrovo National Park, where Lake Mavrovo and the dramatic Radika Canyon offer breathtaking views. Visit the Saint Jovan Bigorski Monastery, an architectural gem set high above the canyon.

End your day in Jance, a tranquil village with beautifully restored homes. You'll be spending the night in a charming traditional hotel here.

After breakfast today, you'll be driving to Vevchani, a village nestled at the foot of Mount Jablanica. Famous for its ancient costume festival celebrating the Orthodox New Year, this picturesque spot offers centuries-long traditions and scenic beauty. Wander along the wooden pier to admire the Vevchani springs before continuing your journey.

Carry on to Ohrid, your home for the next three nights. This UNESCO World Heritage city is the cradle of Orthodoxy in North Macedonia. Once you've checked into your hotel, explore the city’s historic streets and lakeside vistas, known for their cultural and natural beauty.

Spend today discovering the wonders of Lake Ohrid, one of North Macedonia’s most stunning destinations.

Begin with a photo stop at the 'Bay of Bones', an authentic reconstruction of a prehistoric settlement that offers insight into ancient life. Afterwards, drive down the lake shore to visit peaceful Saint Naum Monastery, a 10th-century sanctuary surrounded by lush greenery and located at the border of Albania and Macedonia.

Return to Ohrid to explore its well-preserved landmarks, including the Church of St Jovan and the Roman-era ancient theatre. The city’s lakeside beauty makes it the pinnacle of your Macedonian experience.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast to set you up for a day at leisure in Ohrid, exploring its charming Old Town or relaxing on one of the city’s beautiful beaches. Those seeking more adventure could opt for activities such as Scuba Diving, discovering Lake Ohrid’s underwater world with an instructor. Explore Europe’s oldest and deepest lake, home to a myriad of aquatic species and the site of a major Bronze Age discovery. Alternatively, you might want to paddle across Lake Ohrid’s serene waters in a kayak with a guide, who will reveal its secluded natural beauty spots. You could also take a short hike to picturesque Vevchani and take in its scenic water springs and mountain views.

In the evening, return to the hotel for your final night in Ohrid.

After breakfast this morning, begin your day with a visit to the Marko Towers near Prilep, the striking ruins of a 14th-century fortress perched high on rocky hills. Then, drive onwards to the peaceful village of Omorani in the Macedonian countryside.

Enjoy a warm welcome from your hosts for the next two nights at a charming and well-equipped rural guest house, complete with a secluded swimming pool. Optional activities here include a romantic dinner, a scenic walk to the Babuna Waterfall or crafting natural cosmetics using local ingredients.

Take a free day to enjoy the tranquility of your charming guesthouse in the heart of the Macedonian countryside.

Indulge in a long and leisurely breakfast, then spend your time relaxing and savouring the peaceful atmosphere, or exploring the surrounding area at your own pace.

After breakfast, it's time to check out of your accommodation and say goodbye to Omorani, as you set off for a visit to Stobi, Macedonia’s largest archaeological site. Wander through the ruins of this ancient city, established in the 4th century BCE and learn about its role during the Roman era. For an added treat while you're in the area, stop by the Stobi vineyard to experience the region’s winemaking traditions.

You'll end the day in Crvulevo, a peaceful village surrounded by nature, where your charming countryside accommodation provides a relaxing retreat.

Enjoy a leisurely start this morning, before heading to Kratovo, one of North Macedonia's hidden gems tat exudes medieval charm. Wander its cobbled streets, lined with stone houses and visit landmarks like the clock tower and centuries-old Orthodox churches. Stroll along the Kratovska River to immerse yourself in the town’s unique history.

Conclude your day with a visit to the Serbian village of Gračanica in Kosovo, where cultural heritage and modern hospitality come together. Settle in to your accommodation, home for the next two nights.

After breakfast this morning, make time to visit the Bear Sanctuary, a haven for rescued bears that were once kept in captivity across Kosovo and Albania. Have lunch at the sanctuary, before continuing on to Novo Brdo Castle. Situated on a high plateau, it affords spectacular panoramic views of the region.

Next, move on to explore the 14th-century Gračanica Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning architecture and spiritual significance.

Later, spend the afternoon relaxing at your hotel or explore the area at your leisure.

Enjoy a final Balkan breakfast before your transfer to Pristina Airport: a short 25-minute journey gets you there in plenty of time to for your flight home.